Q - Do I sign-up for Classes & Workshops online or can I sign up at the studio before class?

A - It is not required to sign-up online, but it is recommended as it saves time and paper. Classes and workshops do fill up, so signing up with our online scheduler will ensure your spot; click here to sign-up as a new user. If online registration is inconvenient for you, you can simply sign-up at the studio before the class begins. If you are new to yoga mayu and have not registered in our online system, please do arrive 10-15 minutes early as to complete the liability paperwork and register in our system.

Q - Tell me more about the studio and the practice of yoga at yoga mayu?

A - yoga mayu offers a variety of classes in a Vinyasa (flow) style. The studio is not a hot yoga studio and the space is heated to a comfortable temperature in the mid 70's. Classes at yoga mayu are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced students. Vinyasa is a term that covers a broad range of classical yoga styles. The word Vinyasa means "breath-synchronized movement". In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. This technique is sometimes also called Vinyasa Flow, or just Flow because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. Please refer to our Yoga Styles to read more about class descriptions.

A - Coming to a yoga class for the first time can be daunting; sometimes it feels like everyone knows what they're doing but you. Here are a few tips to make you feel more at ease in your first class:

yoga mayu recommends the Beginners Series, which is a fundamental introduction to yoga. Enroll in our Beginners Series online or in person at the studio.

When you arrive, please take off our shoes at the door.

Arrive 10-15 minutes before the class begins. Check in with the front desk to let them know that you are present and pay for your class if you have not done so already through our online scheduler.

Tell the teacher about your experience level, so they can advise you accordingly.

Bring comfortable clothing to practice in. Stretchy cotton or nonrestrictive fabrics are best. Remember that you'll be moving around a lot and you possibly will be in inverted postures; choose the appropriate length of shorts and snug fitting tops.

Try not to eat 1-2 hours before class, or have a light snack before you step onto your mat. A full stomach can cause discomfort during practice and is believed to restrict the flow of energy in the body.

Turn your cell phone off or to silent for the duration of the class.

Notify the teacher of any injuries, ailments, or if you are pregnant before the class begins. This will assist them in creating the best practice for you and providing modifications when necessary (see other sections of this page for more detail on these subjects).

We recommend that you have your own personal mat, but we do rent mats for $1 at the studio if needed. A water bottle and a small towel are also recommended. See our reasonably priced studio store for all your yoga accessory needs. All other additional props will be provided at the studio.

Always remember, everyone has a first class; don't be afraid to ask the teacher for instructions or assistance. Most importantly, have fun! Don't feel intimidated or anxious during your first class; it is only a practice and everyone is on a journey just like you. Don't forget to breathe.

Q - I am pregnant and need advice about what yoga classes are suitable for me?

A - Yoga can be a wonderful compliment to pregnancy. It is a chance to stretch sore muscles, to gain strength both mental and physical for your new life, and to connect emotionally and physically with your baby. If you have been practicing yoga for some time and you become pregnant, you and your instructor can decide what type of class is best for you. It is mostly recommended that you stay away from super heated classes (not offered at yoga mayu) or a very vigorous class. A mellow Vinyasa Flow or a regular Hatha style class is a perfect choice during your pregnancy. Towards the end of your pregnancy, it is important to take it easy: look for a level 1-2 class or a restorative/mellow flow class.

A - Cars: Street parking is available directly outside the studio for all classes but one (for the 12:30-1:30pm classes Monday through Friday the street parking is extremely limited). The closest parking lot is a UCSF lot at the corner of 17th & Folsom (2 blocks away) and is open to the public at $2/hour. Another option is the Potrero Hill Center as there is a 3-hour parking limit there. It's also 2 blocks away at 16th and Bryant. See map.
Bikes: We have a Bike rack directly outside the studio that can accommodate 6 bikes. Please make sure to use a good U-lock and secure your bike correctly.

A - In most cases it is beneficial to practice yoga when you have a minor injury from sports, work, or daily life. If you have a serious injury, it is important to check with your doctor before participating in any physical activity, including yoga. Ask your physical therapist or doctor to recommend certain stretches or poses that will help to heal your injury. Be sure to tell your yoga instructor about your injury before class. If you have a serious medical condition or are recovering from a serious injury, consult your doctor to make sure you are fit enough to practice yoga. If you have any injuries, please talk to your instructor so they can provide the correct modifications and advise you which classes are appropriate.

A - Yoga is suitable for just about everyone! No matter what age you are, you can always start with a class that would accommodate your fitness level. Please talk to your instructor so they can advise you.

A - Yoga is a healing system of theory and practice. It is a combination of breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years, originating in India. With yoga, we can extend our healthy, productive years far beyond the accepted norm and, at the same time, improve the quality of our lives. Here is a list of the benefits of yoga, and you've probably heard of a few of them before.

There are many benefits of yoga, and you've probably heard of a few of them before. Here is a list of comprehensive benefits that yoga can provide for you:

Flexibility - By lengthening the body and holding poses for longer periods of time, the muscles are allowed to stretch more naturally and lengthen over time.

Strength - Yoga poses can be very taxing, requiring balance and supporting the weight of the body. Over time, you will build strength in all parts of your body.

Muscle Tone - Create long lean muscles by active stretching. Stretched muscles work more efficiently and have longer stamina when used.

Stress Reduction - By learning to breathe into difficult situations, and to have a calm mind and a strong body, stress and tension can be released or diminished.

Body Awareness - Yoga brings acute awareness to the different areas of the body. It gives the practitioner a chance to learn their habits and capabilities.

Additional benefits include:

Increased Energy

Cardiovascular & Circulatory Health

Improved Energy

Balanced Metabolism

Promotes Self Acceptance

Creates a connection between mind, body and spirit

Q - Does yoga mayu offer private yoga classes?

A - Yes, yoga mayu offers private yoga classes. You can choose to take a single private class or purchase a package of 5 private sessions. We offer a one-hour session as well as an hour and half sessions. Please refer to our yoga rates page to see details.

Q - Are there changing rooms and a place to store personal belongings at the studio?

A - There are two private changing rooms, a bathroom, and a cubby area for your personal belongings within the practice space.

yoga mayu is known in San Francisco for having a genuine and personal approach to yoga, and offers a range of Vinyasa, Hatha and Mellow flow classes designed to evolve your practice. Our vision at yoga mayu is to provide you with a fun-loving experience of yoga as a living practice, one that with time can lead to a new way of being.